College is undoubtedly an academic experience (for most students). While necessary, academic achievement, alone, is not sufficient to achieve college success. College is about helping a student develop as an entire person, not just the brain part of the person. A great college experience will teach a student how to become independent, how to thrive in uncertainty, how to take care of his or her personal needs and how to be a contributing member of an active community. To successfully transition to college, students also need to realize success in the social and personal spheres of their lives, as well. Here’s how I like to think of it:
Do this quick health check to determine whether or not you are on track to achieve college success:
Academic Health:
- I feel well prepared to manage my classes even if, at times, I’m stressed
- I have met with my academic adviser
- I know where to go to get help if I need it
Social Health:
- I have a group of friends who I like and feel support me
- I can identify groups or clubs on campus where there are people who share my interests and values
- Even if I feel down or overwhelmed, I know other students are in the same boat as I am
Personal Health:
- I feel ready to take this next step toward adulthood
- I am confident that I can figure things out that I don’t know how to do or can ask someone other than my parents for help
- I am staying healthy – physically, mentally, emotionally
Remember that, while your grades are obviously important, there is much more to a happy and fulfilling college experience.
To maximize the likeliness that your college-bound student will be successful, be sure to explore the other parts of The Complete Candidate’s College Transition Playbook:
Part 1: The College Roller Coaster
Part 3: Selecting the Right School
